U.S. patent number 8,702,268 [Application Number 13/475,211] was granted by the patent office on 2014-04-22 for 2.times.4 dawn light volumetric fixture.
The grantee listed for this patent is Hamid Rashidi. Invention is credited to Hamid Rashidi.
United States Patent |
8,702,268 |
Rashidi |
April 22, 2014 |
2.times.4 dawn light volumetric fixture
Abstract
A recessed lighting fixture which utilizes a fluorescent light
source. The fluorescent lights are shrouded by a diffuser lens
basket so that light from the fluorescent bulbs shining through the
diffuser is dispersed to reduce glare and visibility of the source
of light. It is an object of the present invention to provide a
fluorescent recessed lighting fixture which has the illumination
from the fluorescent bulbs shining through a diffuser. It is also
an object of the present invention to provide a single driver or
ballast within the body of the fixture where access can only be
gained from below the fixture.
Inventors: |
Rashidi; Hamid (Commerce,
CA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rashidi; Hamid |
Commerce |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family
ID: |
50481734 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/475,211 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
362/217.01;
362/217.15; 362/223; 362/217.1; 362/147; 362/217.05 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21S
8/026 (20130101); F21V 13/10 (20130101); F21V
11/14 (20130101); F21S 9/022 (20130101); F21Y
2103/00 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
F21V
21/00 (20060101); F21S 8/00 (20060101); F21S
4/00 (20060101); F21V 1/00 (20060101); F21V
5/00 (20060101); F21V 7/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;362/147,148,217.05,217.02,217.1,249.02,241,245,364,296.01,308,327,20,217.01,217.15,223 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Lee; Jong-Suk (James)
Assistant Examiner: Kryukova; Erin
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Rozsa; Thomas I.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture comprising:
a. a housing having a first width-wise sidewall, a second
oppositely disposed width-wise sidewall; b. a main body comprising
a horizontal wall having a top surface and interior surface, a
first vertical interior transition wall extending to a first
straight angled wall which extends at an angle relative to the
horizontal wall and terminates in a first lower grooved wall having
a gap between the first lower grooved wall and the straight angled
wall, the first vertical interior transition wall and first
straight angled wall serving as a first lengthwise wall of the
fixture, the top surface also comprising a second vertical
transition wall extending to a second straight angled wall which
extends at an angle relative to the horizontal wall and terminates
in a second lower grooved wall having a gap between the second
lower grooved wall and the second straight angled wall, the second
vertical transition wail and second straight angled wall serving as
a second lengthwise wall of the fixture, the first straight angled
wall and second straight angled wall are mirror images of each
other; c. the first straight angled wall has a pair of spaced apart
first channel receiving or gripping members, the second straight
angled wall has a pair of spaced apart second channel receiving or
gripping members; d. the fixture further comprises a V-shaped
ballast cover having a first angled wall extending to a first
vertical interior transition wall, and a pair of spaced apart
second channel receiving or gripping members located at the
junction where the first angled wall contacts the first vertical
interior transition wall of the main body, the V-shaped ballast
cover also comprises a second angled wall extending to wall, a
second interior vertical transition wall, and a pair of spaced
apart first channel receiving or gripping members located at the
junction where the second angled wall contacts the second vertical
interior transition wall of the main body; e. light from a first
fluorescent bulb is transmitted through a first diffuser lens, the
first diffuser lens is arc shaped having a first arcuate sidewall
which terminates in a first bent hook end having a first gap within
the first bent hook end, the first diffuser lens also has a
parallel second arcuate sidewall which terminates in a second bent
hook end having a second gap within the second bent hook end, a
first reflector support assembly which includes the pair of spaced
apart first channel receiving or gripping members from the first
angled wall inserted into the first gap in the first bent hook end
of the first arcuate sidewall of the first diffuser lens and the
spaced apart second channel receiving or gripping members from the
first angled wall of the V-shaped ballast cover are inserted into
the second gap within the second bent hook end of the second
arcuate sidewall, the first arcuate wall is supported by the first
vertical transition wall affixed to the main body, the V-shaped
ballast cover is affixed to the interior surface of the horizontal
wall by screws, so that to remove the first diffuser lens, an
inward force is applied to remove the first gap from the pair of
spaced apart first channel receiving or gripping members of the
first arcuate sidewall or the second gap is removed from the pair
of spaced apart second channel receiving or gripping members of the
V-shaped ballast cover, the first diffuser lens covers the first
fluorescent bulb; f. a second parallel diffuser lens covers a
second fluorescent bulb, the second diffuser lens is arc shaped
having a first arcuate sidewall which terminates in a first bent
hook end having a first gap within the first bent hook end, the
second diffuser lens also has a parallel second arcuate sidewall
which terminates in a second bent hook end having a second gap
within the second bent hook end, a second reflector support
assembly includes the pair of spaced apart second channel receiving
or gripping members from the second angled wall of the V-shaped
ballast cover inserted into the first bent hook end of the second
diffuser lens and the pair of spaced apart first channel receiving
or gripping members from the second angled wall inserted into the
second bent hook end of the second diffuser lens, the second
arcuate wall is supported by the second vertical transition wall
affixed to the main body, the V-shaped ballast cover is affixed to
the interior surface of the horizontal wall by screws, to remove
the second diffuser lens, an inward force is applied to remove the
first bent hook end of the second diffuser lens from the pair of
spaced apart second channel receiving or gripping members of the
V-shaped ballast cover or the second bent hook end of the second
diffuser lens is removed from the pair of spaced apart first
channel receiving or gripping members of the second arcuate wall,
the second diffuser lens covers the second fluorescent bulb; g. the
first straight angled wall having a downward approximately 45
degree angle and terminates in a bottom end having a lower
horizontal section extending to a first vertical section which
extends to has a first upper horizontal section which extends to a
first upper vertical section, the bottom of the second width-wise
sidewall rests on the first upper horizontal section and against
the first upper vertical section; h. similarly the second straight
angled wall extends at has a downward approximately 45 degree angle
and terminates in a bottom end having a lower horizontal section
extending to a second vertical section which has a second upper
horizontal section which has a second upper vertical section, the
bottom of the first width-wise sidewall rests on the second upper
horizontal section and against the second upper vertical section;
and i. the first straight angled wall is not concave and not convex
and the second straight angled wall is not concave and not
convex.
2. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising: a first single driver
attached to the interior wall of the horizontal wall of the main
body.
3. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 2 further comprising the first single driver
is accessed by removing the V-shaped ballast cover and at least one
diffuser.
4. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixture in accordance
with claim 2, further comprising a second driver which functions as
an emergency driver, and the second driver is also attached to the
interior surface of the horizontal wall of the main body and is
aligned with the first single driver.
5. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixtures in accordance
with claim 4 further comprising the second driver is accessed by
removing the V-shaped ballast cover and at least one diffuser.
6. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising: each diffuser being
frosted and made of acrylic material.
7. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising: each diffuser being
made of perforated metal.
8. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 4 where during a power failure in which power
to the fixture is interrupted, the second driver will enable at
least one fluorescent bulb to remain lit to provide illumination
for a given period of time.
9. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising dimming means by which
the illumination from at least one of the fluorescent bulbs is
dimmed.
10. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising: a. the fixture is
affixed to a ceiling structure by parallel oppositely disposed fine
hanger bars, a first hanger bar has an upper rail which fits
against the lower horizontal section and first vertical section of
first reflector support assembly and is affixed to the first
width-wise sidewall by a pair of attachment clips which is affixed
to the first hanger bar by screws at one end and to the first
widthwise sidewall at its opposite end; and b. similarly, a second
hanger bar has as upper rail which fits against the lower
horizontal section and first vertical wall of the second reflector
assembly and is affixed to the second widthwise sidewall by a
second pair of attachment clips.
11. The fluorescent light direct light recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 1, further comprising the fixture is
approximately four (4) feet long and is approximately two (2) feet
wide.
12. A fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture
comprising: a. a housing having at least a top wall, a first
transverse wall perpendicular to the top wall and a second
transverse wall perpendicular to the top wall; b. a main body
comprising a top surface and interior surface of the top surface,
the top surface extends to a first vertical connecting member which
in turn extends at a first straight angled wail which acts as a
reflector and which extends at an angle relative to the top wall
and terminates in a first lower grooved wall having a gap between
the first lower grooved wall and the first straight angled wall,
the top surface also extends to a second interior transition wall
which in turn extends to a second straight angled wall which acts
as a reflector and which extends at an angle relative to the top
wall and terminates in a second lower grooved wall, the first
straight angled wall and second straight angled wall are mirror
images of each other; c. the first straight angled wall has at
least one first channel receiving or gripping member, the second
straight angled wall has at least one spaced apart second channel
receiving or gripping member; d. the fixture further comprises a
V-shaped ballast cover having a first angled wall extending to a
first vertical connecting member, and at least one first channel
receiving or gripping member, the V-shaped ballast cover also has a
second angled wall extending to a second interior vertical
connecting member, and at least one second channel receiving or
gripping member; e. light from a first fluorescent bulb affixed to
the interior surface of the main body is transmitted through a
first diffuser lens, the first diffuser lens is arc shaped having a
first arcuate sidewall which terminates in a first bent hook end
having a first gap within the first bent hook end, the first
diffuser lens also has a parallel second arcuate sidewall which
terminates in a second bent hook end having a second gap within the
second bent hook end, a first reflector support assembly which
includes at least one first channel receiving or gripping member
from the first straight angled wall inserted into the first gap in
the first bent hook end of the first arcuate sidewall of the first
diffuser lens and the first channel receiving or gripping member
from the first angled wall of the V-shaped ballast cover is
inserted into the second gap within the second bent hook end of the
second arcuate sidewall, the first arcuate wall is supported by the
first vertical connecting member affixed to the interior surface of
the top wall, the V-shaped ballast cover is affixed to the interior
surface of the top wall by screws, so that to remove the first
diffuser lens, an inward force is applied to remove the first gap
from the at least one first channel receiving or gripping members
of the first straight angled wall or the second gap is removed from
the at least one second channel receiving or gripping member of the
V-shaped ballast cover, the first diffuser lens covers the first
fluorescent bulb; f. light from a second fluorescent bulb affixed
to the interior surface of the main body is transmitted through a
second diffuser lens, the second diffuser tens is arc-shaped and
covers the second fluorescent bulb affixed to the interior surface
of the main body, the second diffuser lens is arc shaped having a
first arcuate sidewall which terminates in a first bent hook end
having a first gap within the first bent hook end, the second
diffuser lens also has a parallel second arcuate sidewall which
terminates in a second bent hook end having a second gap within the
second bent hook end, a second reflector support assembly includes
the at least one channel receiving or gripping members from the
second angled wall of the V-shaped ballast cover inserted into the
first bent hook end of the second diffuser lens and at least one
channel receiving or gripping members from the second angled wall
inserted into the second bent hook end, the second angled wall is
supported by the second interior transition wall affixed to the
interior surface of the top wall, the V-shaped ballast cover is
affixed to the interior surface of the top wall by screws, to
remove the second diffuser lens, an inward force is applied to
remove the first bent hook end from the first gripping member of
the V-shaped ballast covers or the second bent hook end is removed
from the second gripping member of the second angled wall, the
diffuser lens covers the second fluorescent bulb; g. the first
straight angled wall extends at a downward angle and terminates in
a bottom end having a lower end having means to support the second
transverse wall; h. similarly the second straight angled wall
extends at a downward angle and terminates in a bottom end having
means to support the first transverse wall; and i. the first
straight angled wall is not concave and not convex and the second
straight angled wall is not concave and not convex.
13. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12, further comprising: a first single driver
attached to the interior wall of the top surface of the main
body.
14. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 13, further comprising the first single
driver is accessed by removing the V-shaped ballast cover and at
least one diffuser.
15. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixture in accordance
with claim 13, further comprising a second driver which functions
as an emergency driver, and the second driver is also attached to
the interior surface of the top surface of the main body and is
aligned with the first single driver.
16. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixtures in accordance
with claim 15, further comprising the second driver is accessed by
removing the V-shaped ballast cover and at least one diffuser.
17. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12, further comprising: each diffuser being
frosted and made of acrylic material.
18. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12, further comprising: each diffuser being
made of perforated metal.
19. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 15, where during a power failure in which
power to the fixture is interrupted, the second driver will enable
at least one fluorescent bulb to remain lit to provide illumination
for a given period of time.
20. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12, further comprising dimming means by which
the illumination from at least one of the fluorescent bulbs is
dimmed.
21. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12, further comprising: a. the fixture is
affixed to a ceiling structure by parallel oppositely disposed fine
hanger bars, a first hanger bar has an upper rail which fits
against the lower horizontal section and first vertical section of
first reflector support assembly and is affixed to the first
width-wise sidewall by a pair of attachment clips which is affixed
to the first hanger bar by screws at one end and to the first
transverse wall at its opposite end; and b. similarly, a second
hanger bar has as upper rail which fits against the lower
horizontal section and first vertical wall of the second reflector
assembly and is affixed to the second transverse wall by a second
pair of attachment clips.
22. The fluorescent light direct light recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 12 further comprising the fixture is
approximately four (4) feet long and is approximately two (2) feet
wide.
23. A fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture
comprising: a. a housing having a first lengthwise sidewall, a
second oppositely disposed lengthwise sidewall, a first transverse
wall, a second transverse wall, a top wall, the first transverse
wall perpendicular to the top wall and the second transverse wall
perpendicular to the top wall; b. a main body comprising a top
surface and interior surface of the top surface, a first right
angled wall which acts as a reflector and which extends at an angle
relative to the top wall, a second straight angled wall which acts
as a reflector and which extends at an angle relative to the top
wall; c. the first straight angled wall has at least one first
channel receiving or gripping member, the second straight angled
wall has at least one spaced apart second channel receiving or
gripping member; d. the fixture further comprises a V-shaped
ballast cover having a first angled wall and at least one first
channel receiving or gripping member, the V-shaped ballast cover
also has a second angled wail extending to a second interior
vertical connecting member, and at least one second channel
receiving or gripping member; e. light from a first fluorescent
bulb affixed to the interior surface of the main body is
transmitted through a first diffuser lens, the first diffuser lens
is arc shaped and is retained by the at least one first channel
receiving or gripping members of the first straight angled wall and
the at least one first channel receiving or gripping member from
the V-shaped ballast cover, the diffuser lens covers the first
fluorescent bulb; f. light from a second fluorescent bulb affixed
to the interior surface of the main body is transmitted through a
second parallel diffuser lens which covers the second fluorescent
bulb affixed to the interior surface of the main body, the second
diffuser lens is arc shaped and is retained by the at least one
spaced apart second channel receiving or gripping members of the
second straight angled wall and a the at least one second channel
receiving or gripping member from the V-shaped ballast cover; g.
the first straight angled wall extends at a downward angle and
terminates in a bottom end having a lower end having means to
support the second lengthwise sidewall; h. similarly the second
straight angled wall extends at a downward angle and terminates in
a bottom end having means to support the first lengthwise sidewall;
and i. the first straight angled wall is not concave and not convex
and the second straight angled wall is not concave and not convex;
and j. a first single driver attached to the interior surface of
the top surface of the main body.
24. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixture in accordance
with claim 23, further comprising a second driver which functions
as an emergency driver, and second driver is also attached to the
interior surface of the top surface of the main body and is aligned
with the first single driver.
25. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixture in accordance
with claim 23, further comprising a second driver which functions
as an emergency driver, and second driver is also attached to the
interior wall of the top of the main body and is aligned with the
first single driver.
26. The fluorescent light recessed lighting fixtures in accordance
with claim 25, further comprising the second driver is accessed by
removing the V-shaped ballast cover and at least one diffuser.
27. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 23, further comprising: each diffuser being
frosted and made of acrylic material.
28. The fluorescent light recessed direct lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 23, further comprising: each diffuser being
made of perforated metal.
29. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 25, where during a power failure in which
power to the fixture is interrupted, the second driver will enable
at least one fluorescent bulb to remain lit to provide illumination
for a given period of time.
30. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 23, further comprising: a. the fixture is
affixed to a ceiling structure by parallel oppositely disposed fine
hanger bars, a first hanger bar has an upper rail which fits
against the lower horizontal section and first vertical section of
first reflector support assembly and is affixed to the first
lengthwise sidewall by a pair of attachment clips which is affixed
to the first hanger bar by screws at one end and to the first
transverse sidewall at its opposite end; and b. similarly, a second
hanger bar has as upper rail which fits against the lower
horizontal section and first vertical wall of the second reflector
assembly and is affixed to the second lengthwise sidewall by a
second pair of attachment clips.
31. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 23, further comprising: a. the fixture is
affixed to a ceiling structure by parallel oppositely disposed fine
hanger bars, a first hanger bar has an upper rail which fits
against the lower horizontal section and first vertical section of
first reflector support assembly and is affixed to the first
width-wise sidewall by a pair of attachment clips which is affixed
to the first hanger bar by screws at one end and to the first
sidewall at its opposite end; and b. similarly, a second hanger bar
has as upper rail which fits against the lower horizontal section
and first vertical wall of the second reflector assembly and is
affixed to the second widthwise sidewall by a second pair of
attachment clips.
32. The fluorescent light direct light recessed lighting fixture in
accordance with claim 23, further comprising the fixture is
approximately four (4) feet long and is approximately two (2) feet
wide.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the field of recessed lighting
systems which utilize fluorescent lighting to provide non-glaring
interior lighting.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In general, the concept of utilizing fluorescent lights in recessed
lighting fixtures has been known. However, the source of
illumination is frequently visible, making for an unattractive
source of lighting.
In the prior art, there have been various lighting fixtures which
provide direct lighting. However, in most of these cases, the
source of illumination is frequently visible to the individuals in
the room in which the light is being used. Another embodiment
includes a fluorescent lamp and a lens having prismatic elements
for distributing the light. There are also some light fixtures
which include parabolic fixtures in the light.
The most common source of indoor lighting, especially for business
uses, has been a fluorescent lighting fixture. One problem with
fluorescent lighting fixtures is sometimes they emit light which is
too bright for the area.
Another disadvantage that is found in traditional parabolic and
prismatic troffers is the presence of distracting dynamic changes
in brightness level and patterns as seen by a moving observer in
the architectural space.
There have been various sources of solutions to resolve the
problems with the prior art. One example is found in U.S. Pat. No.
7,229,192 issued to Mayfield, III et al. on Jun. 12, 2007, for
"LIGHT FIXTURE AND LENS ASSEMBLY FOR SAME". In that patent, the
disadvantages of light fixtures using brighter light sources by
providing a configuration that appears to the viewer as though it
has a source of lower brightness, but which otherwise permits the
light fixture to advantageously and efficiently distribute the
light generated by the selected lamp such as T5 lamp was allegedly
resolved. The light fixture of that invention reduces directing
direct light glare associated with high brightness light sources
used in direct or indirect light fixtures. While the advantages of
this patent are certainly of benefit, there is still significant
room for improvement to improve the ability to reduce brightness
and glare of sources of illumination from fluorescent bulbs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a recessed lighting fixture which utilizes
a fluorescent light source. The fluorescent lights are shrouded by
a diffuser lens basket so that light from the fluorescent bulbs
shining through the diffuser is dispersed to reduce glare and
visibility of the source of light.
The present invention relates to a light fixture for efficiently
distributing light emitted by a light source into an area to be
illuminated. The invention includes a light reflector assembly that
supports the light source. A significant innovation of the present
invention is that the light reflector assembly is straight and is
neither concave nor convex but instead, provides a straight angular
reflector which serves to improve the light source emission from
fluorescent bulbs.
The light fixture also includes a lens assembly positioned with
respect to the source of illumination, which lens assembly is
removably affixed in the manner as will be described hereinafter.
In the preferred embodiment, the fixture includes two parallel
lenses which are spaced apart and cover separate fluorescent
tubes.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the reflector assembly
of the light fixture includes a base member that extends
longitudinally between spaced edges along a longitudinal access. At
least a portion of the base member can form a reflective surface
which is preferably a straight non-curved reflecting surface. The
light fixtures is typically higher up in the structure so that the
illumination can be dimmed by the reflector assembly and lens as
set forth hereinafter.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a fluorescent
recessed lighting fixture which has the illumination from the
fluorescent bulbs shining through a diffuser which can be made of
frosted acrylic material or perforated metal so that the
illumination appears to come from a fluorescent light.
It is an additional object of the present invention to provide an
access door in the top of the fixture so that access to a driver or
ballast retained within the fixtures can be provided from the top
of the fixture.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a fluorescent
recessed lighting fixture which has the illumination from the
fluorescent bulbs shining through a diffuser.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a single
driver or ballast within the body of the fixture where access can
only be gained from below the fixture.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a second
emergency ballast in line with the main ballast.
It is an additional object of the present invention to incorporate
the above novel features into a fixture which utilizes fluorescent
light bulbs as the source of illumination.
Further novel features and other objects of the present invention
will become apparent from the following detailed description,
discussion and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Referring particularly to the drawings for the purpose of
illustration only and not limitation, there is illustrated:
FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the present invention 2.times.4
dawn light volumetric fixture which is generally rectangular in
shape;
FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the present invention
2.times.4 dawn light volumetric fixture illustrating the diffuser
lenses and lens supporting structure in place;
FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the 2.times.4 dawn light
volumetric fixture;
FIG. 4 is a rear elevational view of the 2.times.4 dawn light
volumetric fixture;
FIG. 5 is a left side elevational view of the 2.times.4 dawn light
volumetric fixture;
FIG. 6 is a right side elevational view of the 2.times.4 dawn light
volumetric fixture;
FIG. 7A is an exploded view illustrating some of the component
parts of the body of the 2.times.4 dawn light volumetric
fixture;
FIG. 7B is an exploded view illustrating additional component parts
of the 2.times.4 dawn light volumetric fixture;
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the 2.times.4 dawn light volumetric
fixture with section line 9-9;
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG.
8;
FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of the lower right hand corner
illustrated in FIG. 9;
FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of the lower left hand corner
illustrated in FIG. 9;
FIG. 10A is an enlarged view illustrating the fluorescent bulbs and
the first diffuser and attachment members;
FIG. 10B is an enlarged view illustrating the fluorescent bulbs and
the second diffuser and attachment members;
FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the fixture with the diffuser
lenses removed, illustrating the fluorescent bulbs;
FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the 2.times.4 dawn light fixture with
section lines 13-13 and 14-14;
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG.
12;
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional vie take along line 14-14 of FIG. 12;
and
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the 2.times.4 dawn light
volumetric fixture attached to bar hangers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Although specific embodiments of the present invention will now be
described with reference to the drawings, it should be understood
that such embodiments are by way of example only and merely
illustrative of but a small number of the many possible specific
embodiments which can represent applications of the principles of
the present invention. Various changes and modifications obvious to
one skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains are
deemed to be within the spirit, scope and contemplation of the
present invention as further defined in the appended claims.
The present invention is a fluorescent lightbulb lighting fixture
for indoor lighting which includes a pair of diffuser lens baskets
and reflectors. The fixture can be in various sizes. The preferred
embodiment for the present invention has a generally rectangular
shape with a given length "L" and width "W" which by way of example
can be 4 feet by 2 feet.
The present invention fluorescent light lighting fixture is
shrouded in a frosted acrylic or perforated metal diffuser to
defuse the light emitted from the fluorescent light bulbs.
Referring to FIGS. 1-15, there is illustrated the embodiments of
the present invention which are generally rectangular shape in
length and width and can be approximately 4 feet long by 2 feet
wide. The fluorescent light direct recessed lighting fixture 10 has
a first widthwise sidewall 12, a second parallel oppositely
disposed widthwise sidewall 14. A portion of the main housing 100
covers the front and rear of the fixture and also the top of the
fixture. There is no separate front wall, back wall, or top.
One key innovation of the present invention is that fixture 10 is
illuminated exclusively by fluorescent bulbs. Referring to FIGS. 7A
through 11, the invention contains two spaced apart fluorescent
bulbs 700 and 710. The sockets which retain the fluorescent light
bulbs are affixed to interior wall 86 of main housing 100. Both
fluorescent bulbs 700 and 710 are horizontally oriented and spaced
apart so that the two fluorescent bulbs extend for approximately
the entire length "L" of the fixture 10.
One of the unique innovations of the present invention is that each
fluorescent bulb 700 and 710 are respectively shrouded in a frosted
acrylic or perforated metal diffuser lens 200 or 200A which is in
the shape of a longitudinal basket extending the entire interior
length of the fixture 10 and which serves to diffuse the light from
the fluorescent bulbs.
The key physical components of the 2.times.4 dawn light shadow
fixture 10 are illustrated in the perspective view of FIG. 1 and
the exploded views of FIGS. 7A and 7B. The main body 100 comprises
a top surface 80 and interior surface 86 of top surface 80. Top
surface 80 extends to a first vertical transition wall 90 which in
turn extends to a first angled wall 92 which extends at an angle
relative to top wall 80 and terminates in a lower grooved wall 94
having a gap 96 between wall 94 and angled wall 92. The first
vertical transition wall 90 and first angled wall 92 also function
as the front wall of the fixture 10. Top surface 80 also extends to
a second transition wall 102 which in turn extends to a second
angled wall 104 which extends at an angle relative to top wall 80
and terminates in a lower grooved wall 106 having a gap 108 between
wall 106 and second angled wall 104. Second transition wall 102 and
second angled wall 104 also function as the rear wall of the
fixture. First angled wall 92 and second angled wall 104 are mirror
images of each other. As best illustrated in FIG. 11, first angled
wall 92 has pair of spaced apart first channel receiving or
gripping members 91 and 93. Second angled wall 104 has a pair of
spaced apart second channel receiving or gripping members 105 and
107.
A primary ballast 42 is affixed to interior wall 86. An emergency
ballast or battery 72 is also affixed to interior wall 86 and is
aligned with ballast 42.
Referring to FIG. 7B, the fixture 10 further comprises a V-shaped
ballast cover 120 having a first angled wall 122 extending to a
first vertical transition wall 124. A pair of spaced apart second
channel receiving or gripping members 126 and 128 are located at
the junction where the first angled wall 122 contacts the first
vertical interior transition wall 124. The V-shaped ballast cover
120 also has a second angled wall 130 extending to a second
vertical transition wall 132. A pair of spaced apart first channel
receiving or gripping members 134 and 136 (see FIG. 11) are located
at the junction where the second angled wall 130 contacts the
second vertical transition wall 132.
Referring to FIGS. 9, 9A and 9B, the straight first angled wall 92
extends at a downward approximately 45 degree angle and terminates
in a bottom end 92A having a lower horizontal section 92B extending
to a first vertical section 92C which extends to a second upper
horizontal section 92D which extends to a second upper vertical
section 92E. The bottom of each respective widthwise sidewall 12
and 14 rests on upper horizontal section 92D and against upper
vertical section 92E.
Similarly the straight second angled wall 104 extends at a downward
approximately 45 degree angle and terminates in a bottom end 104A
having a lower horizontal section 104E extending to a first
horizontal section 104C which extends to a second upper horizontal
section 104D which extends to a second upper vertical section 104E.
The bottom of each respective widthwise section within sidewalls 12
and 14 rests on upper horizontal section 104C and against upper
vertical section 104E.
Referring to FIG. 10A, the light from the fluorescent bulb 700 is
transmitted through the diffuser lens 200. An additional
improvement is the incorporation of a wavy interior surface 202 on
the interior of the diffuser lens 200. The wavy interior surface
causes the lights from the fluorescent bulbs to bounce off the wavy
surface and provide a smooth warm illumination glow. The wavy
surface also serves to hide the locations where illumination from
the fluorescent bulbs are emitted.
As best illustrated in FIG. 10A, the diffuser lens 200 is arc
shaped having a first arcuate sidewall 210 which terminates in a
bent hook end 220 having a channel or gap 230 within the hook end
220. The diffuser lens 200 also has a parallel second arcuate
sidewall 240 which terminates in a bent hook end 250 having a
channel 260 within the hook end 250. A first reflector support
assembly 300 includes first channel receiving or gripping members
91 and 93 inserted into channel 230 of diffuser lens 200 and first
gripping members 126 and 128 from first angled wall 122 of V-shaped
ballast cover 120 are inserted into channel 260. The first angled
wall 92 is supported by transition wall 90 affixed to interior
surface 86 of top cover 80. V-shaped ballast cover 120 is affixed
to interior surface 86 of top cover 80 by screws such as screws
120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and 120F illustrated in FIG. 7B. To
remove diffuser lens 200, an inward force is applied to remove
channel 230 from gripping members 91 and 93 or channel 260 is
removed from first gripping members 126 and 128. The diffuser lens
200 covers fluorescent light bulb numbered 700 in FIG. 10A.
Alternatively, the fluorescent lightbulb is numbered 430 in FIG.
7B, having bulb retainers 430A and 430B at opposite ends.
Referring to FIG. 10B, parallel diffuser lens 200A covers
fluorescent light bulb 710. As best illustrated in FIG. 10B, the
diffuser lens 200A is arc shaped having a first arcuate sidewall
210A which terminates in a bent hook end 220A having a channel or
gap 230A within the hook end 220A. The diffuser lens 200A also has
a parallel second arcuate sidewall 240A which terminates in a bent
hook end 250A having a channel or gap 260A within the hook end
250A. A second reflector support assembly 310 includes second
channel receiving or gripping members 134 and 136 from second
angled wall 130 of V-shaped ballast cover 120 inserted into channel
230A of diffuser lens 200A and second gripping members 105 and 107
from second angled wall 104 are inserted into channel 260A. The
second angled wall 104 is supported by interior transition wall 102
affixed to interior surface 86 of top cover 80. V-shaped ballast
cover 120 is affixed to interior surface 86 of top cover 80 by
screws such as screws 120A, 120B, 120C, 120D, 120E and 120F
illustrated in FIG. 7B. To remove diffuser lens 200A having ends
210A and 210B, an inward force is applied to remove channel 230A
from gripping members 134 and 136 or channel 260A is removed from
gripping members 105 and 107 of second angled wall 104. The
diffuser lens 200A covers fluorescent bulb numbered 710 in FIG.
100A. Alternatively, the fluorescent bulb is numbered 450 in FIG.
7B having bulb retainers 450A and 450B at opposite ends.
Since the fluorescent bulbs 700 and 710 are horizontally oriented,
light will shine through the respective diffusers 200 and 200A and
give a glowing effect to the fixture 10. In addition, the wavy
interior surface 202 on the diffuser lens (and 200B on diffuser
lens 200A) provides the added advantages previously discussed.
The purpose of the emergency battery pack or emergency ballast 72
is to light at least one fluorescent bulb in the event power goes
out so that an individual will have lighting to escape from a
building should power go out.
The pair of diffusers 200 and 200A are unique to the present
invention.
The ballast or driver 42 can be a dimming driver. Alternatively, it
is possible to have a dual level switch where two hot leads are
brought in each switch independently that can turn on and off a
subgroup of one of the fluorescent bulbs. By way of example, a
dimming switch can have a dimming driver which can have a rotating
switch wherein the amounts of light emitted from each fluorescent
bulb 700 and 710 can be varied and can be brighter or dimmer.
Alternatively, the fixture can have dual level switching where the
fluorescent bulb 700 can be turned on with one switch and the
fluorescent bulb 710 can be turned on with a separate switch.
Therefore, it is within the spirit and scope of the present
invention to have at least one fluorescent light turned on with a
switch. Therefore, one could go full power mode or could go dimming
mode on the driver. The present invention can also utilize a
sliding dimmer switch
The diffusers 200 and 200A are each primarily frosted acrylic
although it can be perforated metal. For the fluorescent bulbs 700
and 710, there are different shades of white. There is a warm
white, a cool white and daylight. Therefore, the fluorescent bulbs
can be warm white, cool white, and daylight.
In the case of the emergency battery pack or emergency diffuser 72,
it will go on if the power goes out and at least a certain subset
of the fluorescent bulbs will be lit. The special circuit design
will be a nickel cadmium battery for the emergency battery pack 72
so it will last at least 90 minutes, The idea is to preserve
battery life so that the emergency battery will only be lighting
one fluorescent bulb to provide light in order to allow someone to
exit the building in case there is an emergency.
Referring to FIG. 1, the top wall 80 has an access door 80D to gain
access to the junction box for wiring. The top wall 80 also has at
least one knockout 80A, for wiring access.
First angled wall 92 and second angled wall 104 are straight--that
means that they are neither convex or concave.
As illustrated in FIG. 13, sockets 720 and 730 are on opposite
locations on the interior of sidewall 14 to retain fluorescent
bulbs 700 and 710. Diffuser 200 covers fluorescent bulb 700 and
diffuser 200A covers bulb 710. Similarly, as illustrated in FIG.
14, sockets 740 and 750 are on opposite locations on the interior
of sidewall 12 to retain fluorescent bulbs 700 and 710. Diffuser
200A covers fluorescent bulb 710.
Since the fluorescent bulbs 700 and 710 are horizontally oriented,
light will shine through the respective diffusers 200 and 200A and
give a glowing effect to the fixture 10.
Referring to FIG. 15, the fixture 10 is affixed to a ceiling
structure by parallel oppositely disposed fine hanger bars 800 and
830. First hanger bar 800 has an upper rail 810 which fits against
lower horizontal section 104B and first vertical section 104C of
first reflector support assembly 300 and is affixed to sidewall 12
by a pair of attachment clips 900 and 910 which is affixed to
hanger bar 800 by screws at one end and to sidewall 12 at its
opposite end. Track 800 has a lower rail 810A. Similarly, second
hanger bar 830 has as upper rail 840 which fits against lower
horizontal section 92B and first vertical wall 92C of second
reflector assembly 310 and is affixed to sidewall 14 by a second
pair of attachment clips 920 and 930 comparable to attachment clips
900 and 910. Track 830 has a lower rail 840A.
Of course the present invention is not intended to be restricted to
any particular form or arrangement, or any specific embodiment, or
any specific use, disclosed herein, since the same may be modified
in various particulars or relations without departing from the
spirit or scope of the claimed invention hereinabove shown and
described of which the apparatus or method shown is intended only
for illustration and disclosure of an operative embodiment and not
to show all of the various forms or modifications in which this
invention might be embodied or operated.
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